Abstract: An active composition for treating skin having a protein-containing extract from a Vigna aconitifolia plant.

Abstract: Various methods of assessing the regenerative potential of dermal tissue in a patient may be determined and methods to determine the potential development of stretch marks in a patient are provided. Through the analysis of a series of dermal tissue samples, a method of monitoring the aging process of the dermal tissue of a patient is possible. Damaged or stretched marked skin may also be used in the development of various diagnostic therapies relating to the inducement of the extracellular matrix components of the skin due to the loss of elastic fibers generally found in stretch marked skin.

Abstract: The present invention concerns a peptide of the general formula (I): R1-(AA)nX1—X2—X3-Pro-X4—X5—X7-(AA)p-R2, capable of activating the synthesis of proteins of the family of aquaporins. The present invention also concerns a cosmetic, nutraceutical or pharmaceutical composition, comprising a peptide of general formula (I) as active principle. The invention also relates to the use of this new active principle in a cosmetic or nutraceutical composition, intended to improve the moisturizing and the barrier function of the epidermis and intended to stimulate cutaneous regeneration. The invention also relates to the use of this new active principle to realize a pharmaceutical composition, and in particular a dermatological composition, intended to regulate and/or stimulate the activity of the aquaporins and to thus treat the pathological dryness of the skin or mucosa.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods and compositions for modulating skin pigmentation.

Abstract: Described is an N-terminal hexapeptide fragment of maximakinin, QUB 698.8, which exhibits potent tissue selective actions on smooth muscle. It demonstrates a high degree of selectivity for arterial smooth muscle over small intestinal smooth muscle, causing potent relaxation of arterial smooth muscle, while causing less potent contraction of ileal smooth muscle. It may be used treatment of diseases of the cardiovascular system and in promotion of angiogenesis.